I recently got the chance to catch up with the dynamic emcee Philosophy Cole aka Warpath. In this brief Q&A he shares his take on the independent music industry, his philosophies on artistry as well as food for thought beneficial to those who share love for the craft.
Achickwitbeatz: Who is Philosophy Cole?
Philosophy Cole: Most people still know me as Warpath, which is an acronym for within a rocky pattern a theory hides, but I recently changed my name to Philosophy Cole.
Every track I’ve made so far has been driven by an idea, a philosophy, and a theory. I speak philosophically so it’s only right to wear the name as a moniker. I’m from the “Mitten” I spent most of my time battling around Detroit, and Pontiac and all surrounding areas of metro Detroit. I evolved from that state of mind as far as battling goes and have just been making the most current, heartfelt, honest, emotional music I can create. My focal point has always been related to God but I represent self that means you too.
Achickwitbeatz: When did you discover that you needed music to be a part of your life?
Philosophy Cole: I was always an artist; I used to draw, a lot! Unfortunately I don’t think I was good enough to convey what I was feeling in that form of expression. My Mother and Father where a group called Merging Traffic under Wheels Records, I believe the record company was called. I was fascinated by the music my father and mother were making. I just remember music at an early age. I later discovered I had a talent for writing and producing beats. I was finally able to let my emotions out, it benefited me greatly. Once I started doing shows and making albums I knew I was home! I’ve suffered from depression my whole life and making music has been the only way to keep my sanity. Music was always apart of my life; I just didn’t know it back then.
Achickwitbeatz: What would you say is the best thing about being an independent artist?
Philosophy Cole: I have to say, having full control of everything I do. I don’t want to be held down by something I love. I think people forget that they once loved this culture! They start doing it for the wrong reasons and that must come from people telling them how they have to be or what they have to say. I can’t live like that.
Achickwitbeatz: What's the most valuable lessoned you've learned since you became an artist?
Philosophy Cole: Ha! Egos are powerful distracters from the truth. We all have to keep that narcissistic energy in check. It will not benefit you to lose sight of praise and appreciation for others' expressions. This is most definitely a two way street. That’s not to say you go out and show love when love is shown solely in that manner. It means simply to remain humble and honest within dealings with other artists. These are not your fans; there are too many fans of Hip-Hop TRYING to MC and not enough MCs. I think as far as fans go? I’ve realized that as long as I stay humble and honest within my music the fans that have been with me since the beginning will keep supporting me and those who are new to my music will feel that and jump aboard.
Do you!
Achickwitbeatz: What are 5 attributes/skills that would place an artist on your top 10 list?
Philosophy Cole: Honesty, versatility, substance, lyricism and delivery. I don't really hold a top ten list anymore though to be completely honest.
Achickwitbeatz: Conversely, what are 5 attributes that would place an artist at the very bottom of your list?
Philosophy Cole: If I have to choose in contrast, I would use the same attributes as above.
(Honesty, versatility, substance, lyricism and delivery)
Achickwitbeatz: What can people expect from Philosophy Cole?
Philosophy Cole: My next album coming out is Spiritual Growth prod by Juan Lobo out of Switzerland. The album is definitely an awakening and flows like a story. It’s very cohesive. We all struggle with our own personal “demons” and this album is a very honest representation of what I deal with. “I’m still growing man…” I’m hoping the album will drop late January. Keep watch.
Achickwitbeatz: How can people connect with you to stay current with what you have in the works?
Philosophy Cole: All of my past and latest works can be streamed, downloaded or bought, at http://www.warpath.bandcamp.com or iTunes, Amazon, Spotify, pretty much all over the internet. You can keep in touch with me at https://www.facebook.com/Warpath101 or warpath2020@gmail.com
Peace and love!!
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